Best Preferred Hotels & Resorts in Puerto Vallarta

Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit touts itself as a "Beyond All Inclusive, Beyond All Compare" retreat, and guest sentiments tend to affirm the resort's claim. Each of its one-, two- and three-bedroom suites features at least 1,000 square feet of living space and comes appointed with teak furniture imported from Bali, a Jacuzzi, a Nespresso coffee maker and a private terrace that overlooks either the ocean or the pool. Guests say that a sumptuous atmosphere pervades throughout the entire property, from the towering ceilings and serene fountain in the lobby to the memorable meals at the six gourmet restaurants. Activities at the infinity pool and on the beach – like boogie boarding and scuba diving classes – are also included in this Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, property's all-inclusive plan. Though spa treatments will cost extra, guests say that the spa facilities are excellent and recommend indulging in a massage during your stay. Part of Preferred brand of hotels and resorts, the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit participates in the I Prefer rewards program.

All-inclusive perks are abundant at this Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, property, ranging from unlimited alcoholic beverages and meals at one of three on-site restaurants (a few more are housed at the resort's neighboring sister property, Garza Blanca Preserve Resort & Spa, and are covered by the all-inclusive room rates) to private beach access and use of the on-site tennis, squash and basketball courts. For those looking for a bit more relaxation, take a dip in the rooftop infinity pool or book a massage at Spa Imagine. But if that's not enough to keep you on the property, wander into central Puerto Vallarta, located about 10 miles north. In addition to offering several natural and architectural marvels, the city provides plenty of delicious eats. If you'd rather dine on-site, recent visitors said you can't go wrong with any of the resort's eateries (although they caution that the restaurants can be a bit pricey if you don't opt for the all-inclusive plan). The accommodations were another point of praise for previous guests. Each includes a walk-in rain shower, a terrace with a hammock and a Jacuzzi tub, a 55-inch LED TV and electric curtains controlled by the in-suite iPad. Keep in mind: Hotel Mousai is an adults-only property, so leave the kids at home during your stay. Since this property falls under the Preferred umbrella, it allows members of the I Prefer program to cash in or accrue points for stays.

Situated just 10 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta's Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport, Villa La Estancia Riviera Nayarit overlooks the sparkling waters of Banderas Bay. Guests say they come to this Villa La Estancia for its relaxing atmosphere – a massage at the Tatewari Spa, a soak in the two-story pool or a refreshing cocktail at the swim-up pool bar can melt away any lingering stress. Those seeking more active pursuits can find ample outdoor activities as well. Guests can swing a racket on two championship tennis courts or a club on one of many nearby golf courses. As for dining, guests can choose from formal dining at La Casona or casual poolside fare at La Parilla (or head next door to the resort's sister property, Villa del Palmar Flamingos, for more options). And when the sun goes down, lodgers can escape to their colonial- and hacienda-inspired villa or guest room; all accommodations are appointed with L'Occitane bath products, minibars, flat-screen TVs and balconies or terraces.

About 10 miles south of downtown Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, this all-inclusive resort exclusively for adults occupies a prime swath of shoreline. In fact, it's the beachfront locale and location – just removed from the buzzy PV – that previous guests loved most. Grand Fiesta Americana Puerto Vallarta's sleek accommodations and warm, welcoming staff also received praise from past travelers. The hotel boasts all-suite accommodations decorated with all-white decor, colorful paintings and pillows, plus views of the beach and ocean. Accommodations also come equipped with rainfall showers, separate sitting areas and balconies. (Some suites even include a Jacuzzi on the balcony.) This Grupo Posadas property is home to an infinity pool, a spa and a gym, which offers services like body scrubs, massages and facials. When it's time for a meal or some drinks, the hotel has 14 restaurants, quick-service venues and bars, serving everything from Asian fusion to Italian to authentic Mexican cuisine. And while there are ample eateries, many say the food on-site could stand to improve and suggested heading into town to explore some local bites during your stay.